Question

What type of communication covers horizontal flow of information with people on same organisational level, and also diagonal flow with persons at different levels who have no direct reporting relationships?

• A. Downward Communication
• B. Upward Communication
• C. Crosswise Communication
• D. Sideways Communication

Hint:

Think of communication flows visually:

\textbf{Upward/Downward} = Vertical (up and down the ladder).
\textbf{Horizontal/Sideways} = Lateral (across the same rung of the ladder).
\textbf{Diagonal} = Slanted (from one rung to a different rung in another ladder).
\textbf{Crosswise} = The general term for any non-vertical flow (both horizontal and diagonal).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Define the different directions of organizational communication. Step 1:

Downward Communication: Flows from a higher level to a lower level (e.g., manager to subordinate).
Upward Communication: Flows from a lower level to a higher level (e.g., subordinate to manager).
Horizontal/Lateral Communication: Flows between people at the same organizational level (e.g., between two department managers).
Diagonal Communication: Flows between people at different levels who are in different departments and have no direct reporting relationship (e.g., a finance manager communicating with a production line worker).
Step 2: Analyze the question's requirements.
Step 2: The question asks for a term that covers BOTH horizontal flow AND diagonal flow.
Step 3: Evaluate the options.
Step 3:

(A) and (B) are incorrect as they are vertical flows.
(D) "Sideways Communication" is another term for horizontal or lateral communication. It does not typically include the diagonal component.
(C) "Crosswise Communication" is a broader term used to encompass both horizontal and diagonal communication flows. It describes any communication that cuts across the organization's formal vertical chains of command.
Therefore, Crosswise Communication is the best fit as it includes both horizontal and diagonal flows.